Pigmentation is highly heritable, as genetic factors modulate the amount and distribution of melanin to the skin, hair, and eyes. However, endocrine factors associated with stress, pregnancy, and aging often induce temporary or permanent changes in skin pigmentation. These hyperpigmentation marks, including age spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory scars, can be extremely tedious to remove.

By studying the mechanisms that rule mature melanocyte formation in response to stress and aging, the Hsu Lab is well-positioned to uncover a way to prevent or treat hyperpigmentation. When melanocyte stem cells are activated to generate mature melanocytes, some remain in the hair follicle to determine hair color, while others move into the skin to dictate skin pigmentation. The Hsu Lab findings suggest that modulation of melanocyte maturation could show improvements in stress- and aging-induced hyperpigmentation when applied to the appropriate preclinical model. The outcome of this program could lead to a novel solution for persistent hyperpigmentation scars, which can become the next generation of brightening skincare products.